Juana Welpton Fredrick

Juana Welpton Fredrick (89) passed away peacefully December 31, 2024. She was born October 10, 1935 in Tulsa, OK to parents Hope Stephens Welpton and John Welpton. She is preceded in death by her husband Reverend John A. Fredrick, her parents, her brother John Welpton, and daughter-in-law Christy Fredrick.

She is survived by her two sons Stephen Fredrick, David Fredrick (Angie), and two grandsons David Doellman and Alex Fredrick. She is also survived by her sister Mary Anne Welpton and two nieces Katrina Young and Stephanie Stoner.

Juana graduated from University of Oklahoma with a bachelor's degree in education in 1958. She moved to Phoenix, Arizona and married her beloved husband John December 21, 1962. They welcomed their two sons David and Stephen in 1967. Juana taught Physical Education at Coronado High school for 20 years. She coached the girls’ sports teams and the Donnettes who performed annually in Scottsdale’s Parada del Sol.

Juana then earned a master’s degree in Education Administration and was Vice Principal at Coronado High School from 1984-86, Chaparral High School 1986-93, and Desert Mountain High School from 1993 until she retired in 2000.

While raising her boys and working Juana was also a deacon and member of the handbell choir and vocal choir at Memorial, Desert Hills, and Emmanuel Presbyterian churches. She was also an avid softball player, including semi-professional fast-pitch softball for several teams, including the Bobbettes, the Blues, and the Saints.

After retiring Juana remained active in her church, and was a doting grandmother to her two grandsons David and Alex. Juana and John also volunteered tirelessly at Indian Bend Elementary school for many years where they helped countless kids learn to read.

Juana will be remembered for her fierce dedication to her husband, sons, and grandsons, and all of her students. There will be a celebration of life at Emmanuel Presbyterian Church Saturday May 3, 2025 at 11:00AM. 3839 E Shea Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85028. In lieu of flowers, please honor Juana’s lifelong dedication to education with a donation to your local school.